Internal Financial Controls and Working Capital Management in Public Universities in Uganda: A Case Study of Makerere University Kampala

Abstract

The objective of the study is to examine the extent to which internal financial controls affect working capital management in Public Universities in Uganda. Working capital is vital for running of institutions because it provides the financial liquidity needed to effectively manage day-today operations. A cross-sectional research design was adopted using a quantitative approach. Data was collected from staff of Finance and Internal Audit Directorates, and heads of Departments, Schools and Colleges of Makerere University using a self- administered closed ended questionnaire. Empirical data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation and regression tests. Findings indicate that the elements of internal financial controls which include; the control environment, risk assessment process and budget control have a positive and significant effect. The effect of control activities is not statistically significant. Therefore, Public Universities should strengthen financial control policies and procedures, risk assessment processes and budgetary control mechanisms to effectively manage working capital.